What word can be more synonymous to “summer” other than… HOLIDAY! Summer only lasts for that short few months of a year, so it is important to pick the perfect holiday destination to make the best use of those summer months. But before all the fun and laughter, comes the dreary moment of planning for a holiday. Scrolling through an endless number of travel websites, reading what seems like a never-ending number of travel blogs, sieving through a plethora of information…well, not anymore! This is the only article you’ll need to ensure a fun-filled holiday at an unforgettable destination. We have completed the tedious searches on your behalf and collected all the information you’ll need here. Regardless of your budget or location, we’ve got it covered. Read away!
Cappadocia
Famous for its stunning rock formations and hundreds of hot air balloons which paint the morning sky into picturesque scenery. Coupled with the mind-blowing scenery are the city’s rich Mediterranean and Asian culture and history. Be it a solo escapade, romantic honeymoon or family getaway, Cappadocia will have something to take your breath away. The best time to visit would be from April to May. We highly recommend visiting the rose valley hiking trail which will give you an incredible view of the ridges and sandstone formations especially at sunset when it is covered with a pinkish hue. Going beneath the surface, we have the underground cities, and Kaymakli Underground City is one that shouldn’t be missed. Be prepared to be captivated by the architectural masterpiece and superb engineering.
Siem Reap
Siem Reap, the city that houses the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat, definitely cannot be left out of this list. Pictures on the Internet do not do the intricate carvings on the sandstone bricks any justice. They must be seen in person for one to believe such a wonder was created 900 years ago. One of the cheapest places to travel in Asia but also one with the richest culture. Apart from the religious and cultural aspects, shopping in Siem Reap is equally magnificent. Feast on some local delights like Prahok and Nom Banh Chok at the floating village at dawn and wander Angkor Night Market at dusk. The best time to visit would be from December to January or in June.
Playa Del Carmen
A stunning beach town in sunny Mexico. Not yet tainted with the tourist footprints, this destination is still in pristine condition. Jet away before more people catch wind of this gem! During the months of December and April, you can find yourself snorkeling in the sparkling waters of Cenote Azul or sunbathe at any one of the beach clubs along the beachfront. Just as you think you’re done with the wet activities, comes an adventure into Rio Secreto. It is a stunning cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites on the ceiling and countless underground rivers and springs meandering through it. After all the adventures, sip on some margarita and chomp on some tacos while taking in all the beauty of this undiscovered treasure.
New Zealand
Crowned as one of the countries with the best scenery in the world, New Zealand is situated down under. The Kiwis enjoy the sun while the rest of the world freezes in the months of December to February. A few notable sites: Coromandel Peninsula, Lake Tekapo, Milford Sound, and Rotorua. From waterfalls to lakes to terrestrial hot springs, you’ll never get enough of these spectacular sights. Fun fact: the Hollywood blockbuster, Hobbit was filmed right in New Zealand, across the North and South region. Piopio especially is a destination to mark on your map with its interesting limestone rock formation and overarching cliffs, which look like a scene straight out of Middle-earth. The best time to visit all the above will be from December to February.
Mauritius
Hot spot among the couples choosing a location for their honeymoon. The sparkling blue water, velvety white sand, and colorful reefs are what make beaches on Mauritius iconic. To spice up the romantic getaway beside the beaches, there is a heap of exciting activities to enjoy on this beautiful island. Firstly, sub scooter diving. A sub scooter is a scooter with a big glass dome attached to it that allows you to explore the beauty of the underwater world. You’ll be able to watch marine life swim right by your face, it’s truly a dream come true! Secondly, quad biking. You can be one with nature – zoom by the lush greenery on a rugged bike. Lastly, Chamarel: 7 Coloured Earth Geopark. The spectacular sand dunes proudly display seven different colors, red, violet, green, blue, purple, yellow and brown. Under the scorching sun, the colors are intensified and become more vibrant. Simply stunning.
Amalfi Coast
One of Italy’s pride and glory. A treasure of the Italian coasts and the epitome of natural beauty in the summery months of May to September. The pastel-colored houses nested on the cliff in the town of Positano coupled with the surrounding greenery, it is almost unbelievable that it is not a painting. The ultimate Italian dream would be to sit by the Amalfi Coast, sip on a cup of wine and have some cheese. When you need a break from the serenity, you can always head into the main town for some buzz. Standing in the main town is a cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo. The medieval Roman Catholic cathedral has a unique ancient rustic charm that is not replicated by any other European cathedral.
Hoi An
This city is a rare survivor of the Vietnam War. It was left mostly unscathed from the brutal battle which means much of its beauty is still retained and intact. The Old Town which boasts stunning architecture that captures the essence of the Vietnamese culture has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And as they say, when in Vietnam, have a coffee! Vietnam, a country famous for its coffee, offers some of the best brews in the world. You must not give it a miss! In fact, it is so good, you might even buy some back as souvenirs.
What else are you waiting for? Scoot away and have a great summer! The world out there is waiting for you. Exploring our beautiful planet has never been easier.